Riga names the best bakers of its signature "Vecrīga" pastry
A professional jury has selected its favorites in a competition for the best version of Riga's iconic "Vecrīga" dessert. Organizers stress that every visitor to the participating bakeries is a winner in their own right, as everyone has their own perfect version.
A competition to find the best makers of the legendary "Vecrīga" pastry has concluded in Riga, with a professional jury handing down its verdict. The panel included six industry figures: chef and founder of the Confectioners' Association Ina Poliščenko, food stylist Linda Vilmansone, chef and president of the Cooks' Club association Artūrs Arnicāns, journalist Marta Leitena, editor of the magazine "Pie galda!" Zane Bitmane, and a representative of the Riga Investment and Tourism Agency, Rita Pētersone.
Every guest is a winner
Organizers emphasize that the contest was never meant to crown a single winner. While the jury did pick its own favorites, they say the real judges are the everyday visitors to the city's bakeries, since each person has their own idea of the perfect "Vecrīga."
Home bakers still competing
A separate contest is still underway for home bakers and pastry enthusiasts, who are competing for the title of best homemade "Vecrīga." The winners of that competition will also be announced during Riga's city birthday celebrations.
The sweet trail continues
So far, 45 bakeries and confectioneries across Riga have joined the "Riga's Sweetest Secret" campaign, each offering its own take on the beloved dessert. Organizers are inviting both locals and visitors to keep exploring the city's sweet trail even after the competition officially wraps up.
The campaign coincides with Riga marking its 825th anniversary this weekend, with a wide range of events planned across the city.
